He was sitting among a few hundred roofing contractors and other industry professionals - working away on his computer - just moments before realizing his name was going to be called from the stage. 

“I’m astonished. Really!” Cotney said as he accepted the award during the association’s annual luncheon. 

Association officials said awarding Cotney with the group’s highest honor for his legal and strategic support over the years was a “no-brainer.” Yet they added that he was even more deserving for his willingness to help, regardless of circumstances, and staunch commitment to protect the roofing industry wherever possible. Outgoing WSRCA President Mike Wakerling compared his attitude to that of a “mama bear” protecting its cubs with unparalleled strength.

“Anyone involved with Western States can tell you how important his contributions have been to our success,” Wakerling said. “It’s also a rare thing in life to meet an individual that not only makes a difference on a professional level, but on a personal level too. He really cares about us.”

Cotney humbly accepted the award and said he already had a place in mind to display it prominently in his office in Tampa. 

“Western States really means a lot to me," he said. "From the first time I started coming to these expos many years ago I’ve been welcomed. And everyone here ... we fight for the industry, and that’s what is important to me.”